I have been pondering the idea of how I can get a free night’s stay while out on the road. There are many methods, some more extreme than I am willing to do. Some are actually quite good and worth consideration.
Couch surfing is the first thing I would like to do. I can stay with a local, see how they live, meet their local friends, experience true culture and food and everyday lives in a place. This is best done solo.
Camping is always an option given you have the right gear and a safe enough area. I would need a tent, cooking untensils, food, sleeping bag, etc. I am still debating if I would want to carry all of this around. This is best done with another person or group.
Sleeping in airports/bus stations/train stations is another option that I have done. I usually do it while in transit or by necessity. Safety of belongings is always a concern but their is usually luggage lockers or some way to secure your things. This can be done solo or in a group (better). You also run the risk of security throwing you out, though.
There are many others out there but these are the main 3 that would make sense to me. I need to find a balance between them all and pack my bag accordingly. Saving money now means more travel later.